Intersecting oppressions are systematic disadvantages that affect people from different backgrounds and identities. These include racism, sexism, heterosexism, ableism, ageism, classism, and transphobia. Chronic stress is a prolonged response to repeated or constant demands or pressures placed on an individual. It can result in physical and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, heart disease, high blood pressure, and immune suppression. Research has shown that intersecting oppressions significantly impact chronic stress responses. In this article, I will discuss how these factors accumulate and shape the experience of chronic stress.
Racism refers to prejudice and discrimination against individuals based on their racial identity. Racist attitudes and actions can cause psychological distress which manifests as chronic stress.
Experiencing microaggressions such as being followed while shopping or being mistaken for another race due to stereotypes causes feelings of frustration, anger, and fear that contribute to chronic stress. Secondly, sexism involves gender-based prejudices and discriminatory practices. Women and non-binary individuals may face sexist attitudes and actions that lead to emotional turmoil, resulting in chronic stress. Sexual harassment, unequal pay, gender roles, and sexual objectification all contribute to chronic stress.
Homophobia is the hatred or prejudice towards LGBTQ+ individuals. Homophobic behaviors such as verbal abuse, physical assault, and exclusion can lead to long-term stress, causing mental health problems like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.
The lack of legal recognition of same-sex relationships adds further burden and contributes to chronic stress.
Intersecting oppressions also include ableism, ageism, classism, and transphobia. Ableism refers to discrimination against people with disabilities while ageism affects older adults. Classism is the belief that socioeconomic status determines worthiness and value, while transphobia is the irrational fear or hatred of transgender people. All these factors can create social barriers, leading to chronic stress.
People with disabilities face accessibility challenges, while older adults may experience ageism in employment opportunities. Transgender individuals may be denied basic human rights, leading to increased stress levels.
Intersecting oppressions accumulate to shape chronic stress responses. These social issues are systematic and can be difficult to escape. Individuals from marginalized groups often bear more stress due to multiple identities they possess. Therefore, it is crucial to address and eliminate these social issues for a more equitable world.
How do intersecting oppressions (racism, sexism, homophobia) accumulate to shape chronic stress responses?
Racism, sexism, and homophobia are forms of systemic oppression that contribute to chronic stress responses by creating social structures that promote discrimination, marginalization, and disadvantages for members of minority groups. When these groups experience multiple forms of oppression at once, the cumulative effects can be particularly damaging, leading to increased risk factors for physical and mental health problems.